Fate Accelerated Universal; Narrative-Driven; Classless; Quick-Play; Rules Lite; Low Prep
At‑a‑glance: Universal • 4dF/2d6 variants • 2–5 + GM • Near‑zero prep • Rules‑lite • 1–2h sessions
Theme and Setting
Fate Accelerated (FAE) is setting‑agnostic. It’s a compact version of Fate that lets you run anything from pulp heists to cozy fantasy to space opera with the same core tools. You describe the fiction first, then bring in rules only as needed—keeping the focus on tone, genre tropes, and character intent.
Core Mechanics and Rules
Characters are defined by Aspects (free‑text truths you can invoke/compel), six Approaches (Careful, Clever, Flashy, Forceful, Quick, Sneaky), and a handful of Stunts (small, flavorful bonuses). Roll the dice, add the relevant Approach, and compare to an opposition value. Fate points fuel invocations of Aspects (yours, allies’, scene, or situation) for advantage; compels earn you fate points when your character’s truths complicate the scene. Stress and consequences handle harm and fallout with minimal bookkeeping. Boosts and Create an Advantage reward clever setup play, so teamwork and fictional positioning matter.
What Makes It Unique
FAE strips Fate to the essentials without losing the engine’s heart: Aspects as table‑agreed facts you can leverage, Approaches as flexible stats, and play that orbits the fiction. It onboards in minutes, scales to many genres, and supports both improv one‑shots and longer arcs with the same kit. Because outcomes hinge on what’s true in the scene, the game rewards players who describe bold actions and establish useful truths rather than hunt for feats on a sheet.
Target Audience and Player Experience
Perfect for groups that value collaborative storytelling, quick starts, and rulings over crunch. New players latch onto Aspects quickly; veterans can push high‑tempo scenes with creative advantage play. If you want tactical grids and deep buildcraft, FAE will feel intentionally light. If you want fast, fiction‑first resolution and genre‑savvy action, it sings.
